Would that we humans could get along and accept each other’s differences, right? In all our years we have never seen anyone but pigs socialize with pigs and here these youngsters seem just fine. Is there a lesson somewhere there? P.S. and a side order of skunk.

After a relatively UNremarkable blooming season earlier this year, this afore taste of autumn in collusion with the supermoon offered up a plethora of wonderment in dahlias, lilies, our spider person, virginiannas, critters big and small, and finned fantastics to name a few.

Our treasured anemone virginianas have finally given us something to gawk at when we are done absolutely marveling at the intricacy and weaving ability of this spider that google tells us is a common house spider!

Our little faithful raccoon family was quite busy recently scavenging and making friends with the skunk.

The latest monsoon rains have absolutely electrified the gardens and sent us heirloom tomatoes, okra, basil, peaches, and pears. Mind you, we are NOT putting Del Monte out-of-biz, but these darlings good-looks are exceeded only by their full-bodied flavour.

Summer continues to wend its way through August and we still feel monsoon-cheated. We are pleased that this little family is finding food and most importantly water. Indulge us by enjoying them yet again.

Well finally, and what seems to be months too late, we were visited by our first raccoon family this year. Mama brought her four kindergarteners for their premier visit and training session in foraging and tree-climbing.

This summer’s blooms have not been as spectacular and prolific as years past so when we are given a show-stopper like this dahlia it truly gets our attention.

Although the ladybugs have been in short supply, we have a few other neighbors keeping themselves busy this month. With our datura in full regalia where it volunteers in the veggie shed, a praying mantis has taken up housekeeping.

With summer in full swing, we are not only rain dancing for another round of monsoons but praying the gods send more ladybugs whose favorite snacks are the dreaded aphids that attack the new rose growth. This girl needs to chow down!